1822 Pattern British Royal Engineer Officer's Pipeback Sword, sold

In very good overall condition for its age, a rare 1822 Pattern British Royal Engineer Officer's Pipeback Sword.

Amazing to find a George IV 1822P with the etching still very clear. Etched to the ricasso and engraved to the top scabbard locket to "Johnston Blane Foster, Sword Cutler Belt Maker to his Majesty, 68 St James Street, London". This 1822P made rarer still by the flaming bomb etched to the blade denoting it was for a Royal Engineers officer.

The 32 1/4 inch pipeback quill point blade is well etched and in very good overall condition, plus firm in the hilt. The hilt, while overall good has suffered the same fate as most of these brass "Gothic" hilts, it has bent a little inwards (no breakage but a big hand will have problems holding firmly the grip - most likely can be corrected). Folding guard section works well. The fishskin grip and twisted grip wire bindings are in very good condition. The leather with gilt metal fittings scabbard (note the lack of suspension rings, these old swords were suspended from frog buttons) is good but the leather near the chape is weak / floppy / creased. The sword sheathes and draws well.

A very scarce sword in well above average condition. What a find for only £? (too late, now sold). Please quote item reference AB90 (0138). Further / full sized images available upon request.